This is a great celebration of triumph over evil. Harry has overcome so much and to be comfortable to appear at an event like this in a wheelchair was terrific. Thank goodness the trial is over and the Matron got what she deserved. The auction was a great idea and people were sure to open their purses more with a good meal behind them. The family joining together to bid on the Bahama vacations was wonderful. I'm so glad that Arthur appreciated the care a love from all of his children. I love the fact that Harry bought the pearls for Ginny. I'm sure she was pleased. You and your betas did an excellent job on this one. Very well done. Thanks for writing. p

ArnelMonday 19th March 2012 16:54

39: Auction (Author Response)

Harry buying the pearls for Ginny is a real life story. Years ago, I was teaching at a private school which had an auction like this and unbeknownst to me, my husband bid on and won a set of pearls for me... outbidding the headmaster of the school who wanted them for his wife! Like Ginny I was tremendously pleased and I still wear the necklace as often as I can.

I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter. Thanks for reading and writing to me. The next chapter will be up on Thursday.

I loved this chapter! The downtime with Ron and HArry at the beginning was great, and I love that they were so honest with the waitress, even though they didn't actually consume more than one bottle from the pub's stock.

The fundraiser was absolutely fantastic; I love how everyone in Harry's extended family is now financially comfortable enough to be able to participate in the contributions and auctions. Ginny really was a wonderful choice to co-chair. May all future events be as successful! Cheers!

ArnelThursday 15th March 2012 18:27

39: Auction (Author Response)

Honesty is the best policy when you're job is in law enforcement. What sort of example would they be setting if they only paid for half of what they consumed?

As for Ginny and the auction, I like to think she actually enjoys helping Madam Offerman with St Mungo's fundraising activities, not only because the patients benefit from the money raised, but because she's found an activity she finds personally fulfilling. With Ginny helping to organize this auction and future events, I think the hospital will reap the benefits.

One of the themes I've been pursuing throughout this story is overcoming adversity and throughout canon Arthur and Molly were always strapped for cash. As I thought about the changes that could take place during the twenty years following the war, I knew that the money Arthur and Molly spent to educate their family could and would be channeled different places, meaning that it was time they reaped the benefits of not having school tuition expenses. Besides, as adults, their children have made names for themselves through their successful careers, which enables them to rally around a worthwhile cause like St Mungo's Hospital.